Holiday Tidings (Bow)
| Holiday Tidings (Bow) | |
|---|---|
| Date of Cutscene: | 13 December 2024 |
| Location: | Bow's Dorm Room |
| Synopsis: | Bow records his latest travel vlog... and takes a moment to reach out into the void. |
| Cast of Characters: | Bow |
The camera flickered on, revealing Bow seated on a zabuton cushion at a low wooden table. Behind him, the room was adorned with subtle, traditional Japanese touches—a simple shoji screen, a vase with a single sprig of red winter berries, and a small pine bonsai adorned with tiny red and gold ornaments. Soft light from paper lanterns cast a warm glow over the scene, giving it an atmosphere of serenity and thoughtfulness. Bow adjusted the camera, his characteristic grin broadening as he waved.
"Minasan, konnichiwa!" he greeted brightly, his voice full of energy. "It’s been a little while since I’ve done one of these vlogs, but I wanted to share something special I’ve been learning about here on Earth—kurisumasu, or Christmas!"
He leaned forward, his hands clasped together on the table. "Christmas here in Japan is different from what you might expect. It’s not as much about family gatherings or religious traditions as it is about creating joy and spending time with loved ones. Think illuminations, fancy dinners, and… fried chicken! Seriously, there’s this whole tradition of eating fried chicken for Christmas dinner."
He chuckled, reaching for a small plate of golden karaage. "I’ve been trying it out myself… and I have to say, it’s pretty amazing. But what really struck me about Christmas in Japan is how much it’s about small gestures and creating warm memories. People exchange gifts, write heartfelt messages, and go on romantic dates. It’s about making others smile."
Bow’s grin widened as he gestured to the little bonsai tree behind him. "And of course, there’s the decorations. They’re simple and elegant—just like this little tree. No huge, glittering castles here, but it’s all so cozy and magical in its own way."
He leaned closer to the camera, his expression turning playful. "But here’s where it gets really interesting… Santa Claus. Now, I’ve been thinking about this a lot. What if Santa was a magical being? Hear me out! He’s got helpers, like familiars or a coven. He travels impossible distances in one night, which sounds a lot like teleportation magic. And his magic works because people believe in him. Doesn’t that sound like something we’d see in Etheria?"
He sat back, folding his arms and nodding thoughtfully. "Maybe Santa is a magical being and decided to spread joy in a different way. Or maybe he’s from another world altogether. Either way, he’s definitely rocking some impressive magic. Imagine having the power to eat endless sweets without getting full... now that’s a skill worth learning!"
Bow picked up a steaming cup of matcha, taking a slow sip before continuing. "What really resonates with me, though, is the idea of the Christmas spirit. It’s about kindness, generosity, and making connections. It’s not about spells or wands; it’s about the magic people create when they come together. And that’s something we can all learn from."
He set the cup down and smiled softly. "So, Etheria, if you’re watching this, maybe we can bring a little of that Christmas spirit to our world. Small gestures, big smiles, and moments of joy... that’s real magic."
The camera flickered back on, but this time the background was darker, and Bow’s expression was more solemn. The fairy lights were dimmed, casting shadows across the small room. This was not his usual vlog. Bow adjusted the frame, leaning forward slightly as if addressing someone intimately.
"Hey, Dads. George, Lance," he began, his voice quieter now, tinged with longing. "I, uh, hope this gets through to you somehow. I know it’s encrypted and all, but I’ve been working on this link for a while. I just... I needed to talk to you both."
He exhaled, running a hand through his hair. "I miss you. I miss Etheria. It’s been… it’s been really hard being away for so long. I know I made this choice to come here, to learn, to grow, but sometimes I wonder if I’m doing the right thing. Especially with Glimmer in Obsidian."
Bow’s gaze dropped, his fingers fidgeting with the edge of his sleeve. "I know she’s doing what she thinks is best, but I’m worried. People are seeing her as this… this unreachable force, and it’s not who she is. Glimmer is so much more than that. She’s brave, kind, and she’s always been about helping others. But now, it feels like that side of her is being overshadowed in this whoel show and dance she's putting on to be dark. And I can’t help her. Especially after I pushed her further away when I allowed dark magic to corrupt me. More on that later. I'm okay though. Just... exposed to some feelings I never realized before and don't know how to deal."
He bit his lip, his voice cracking slightly. "I tried, you know? I tried to help her, to be there for her. But my last attempt... it just felt like I failed her. Like I failed everyone. And now, I’m here, doing these vlogs, trying to stay positive, but it’s hard. It’s really hard."
He looked up at the camera, his eyes glistening with unshed tears. "I just wanted to tell you both that I’m trying. I’m doing my best to honor everything you taught me, to be the kind of person who makes a difference. I just... I just wish I could be there with you, with everyone, to help make things right."
Bow sat in silence for a moment, the faint hum of the city outside filling the void. Finally, he gave a small, bittersweet smile. "I love you. I’ll keep trying. For you, for Glimmer, for Etheria. I just need to believe. Merry Christmas."
He reached forward and turned off the camera, the room falling into darkness except for the faint glow of the fairy lights.
